Pair of small plane crashes raise issues of Nevada airplane accidents
Aerial enthusiasts and detached onlookers alike have been shocked and saddened by a pair of small airplane crashes in Nevada whose mysterious circumstances have left authorities wondering if more regulations are needed and families contemplating wrongful death litigation to rebuild their lives. Seven individuals are reported dead in two crashes this week, and a wealthy California man is also missing after flying through Nevada airspace.
In the largest crash, the investigation is ongoing after a plane fell about a football field’s length short of a runway in eastern Nevada. Attempting to land at an airport in Wendover, Nevada (along the Utah border), the plane reportedly veered north before crashing and losing its wings. Air traffic controllers say the pilot had indicated that he was trying to land to refuel when the accident occurred. As is often the case in these incidents, all four passengers were killed. In the few instances when there are survivors, they are frequently affected by serious injuries that may require amputation or other emergency medical procedures.
The other crash being covered this week killed all three occupants north of Reno. The plane was flying from Oregon through Nevada to the state of New Mexico but crashed into a mountain northwest of Reno near the California state line. High winds in the area are considered a likely factor in the incident, but investigators are still gathering facts. Frequently in Nevada injury and accident cases involving small aircraft, pilot error and extraordinary weather must be ruled out before proceeding with litigation to hold the plane’s manufacturer or owner responsible for negligent upkeep or for defective product liability.
The owner of a California winery is still missing after attempting to fly a small Cesna plane from Minden, Nevada to a Central Valley airstrip. Although hope remains that he will be recovered safely, the odds are against him. Airplane accidents are especially devastating to surviving family members because they so often involve loved ones with many years of flying experience. If you have lost a loved one in a Nevada airplane accident and you are looking for answers, contact us to learn more about exploring legal action.
